Atwater Village is small, but it's packed with hidden gems. The neighborhood is located right by the L.A. River and that alone will give outdoorsy types lots to explore. It's a neighborhood with a music history memorialized in the mural portrait of late Beastie Boy MCA and a future that's being forged inside nearby Swing House Studios. For being such a small neighborhood, Atwater Village's bar game is strong and includes spots where you can check out up-and-coming local talent too. Whether you're looking for an afternoon adventure or a dose of L.A. nightlife, Atwater Village has you covered.

The Sustainable City pLAn is a roadmap for a Los Angeles that is environmentally healthy, economically prosperous, and equitable in opportunity for all - now and over the next 20 years. The pLAn focuses on both short-term results and long term goals that will transform our city.

One of the best aspects of living in Los Angeles is the ready access to outdoor activities. The beach, mountains and desert are all within striking distance. Hiking is always an option, whether it’s the Santa Monica Mountains, Baldwin Hills, Hollywood Hills, down south in Ranchos Palos Verdes or up in the mighty San Gabriel Mountains. Learn about 10 of the best easy hikes in L.A. County that will get your heart rate up and yield some terrific views, but won’t lead to exhaustion.

A few quick reminders: 1. Carry your cell phone with you in case of emergency. The signal can be limited in the mountains, but the phone is your best friend if you run into trouble.2. Carry plenty of water because trails often offer little shade and it can get hot. 3. Wear sunscreen. Even if the sky starts overcast, sun often breaks through clouds. 4. Stay to the center of the trail to limit contact with plants like poison ivy and wildlife like rattlesnakes and tarantulas.

For many visitors, a trip to Los Angeles isn’t complete without experiencing the natural beauty that surrounds the city. Whether your hotel is in Downtown L.A. or at the beach, there are numerous L.A. County and California State Parks located a short drive away. From spectacular coastal settings to rugged mountains and otherworldly desert landscapes, these parks offer a wide range of daytime activities and options for camping overnight. Read on and find out more about camping sites near Los Angeles.

Online reservations for California State Parks can be made via the new ReserveCalifornia system, which launched August 1 and will be rolled out through March 1, 2018. The format is similar to booking hotel rooms or airline tickets - after creating a profile, you'll be able to reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance.

From Downtown L.A. to the coast, parks across the city invite you to enjoy the great outdoors any time of year. Whether you're casually strolling through an urban oasis or getting some exercise on a scenic hike, gorgeous weather and beautiful natural surroundings will be your constant companion.